Healthy livestock remains a key source of income for thousands of smallholder farmers across Nigeria, especially women. Yet, limited access to vaccines, veterinary services, and practical livestock management knowledge continues to threaten productivity and livelihoods.
To tackle this challenge, El-Beth Agro-Vet Services Ltd, in partnership with the UK-Aid-funded Propcom+ programme, conducted an intensive livestock management training for farmers in Bauchi State.
Between 11 and 20 December 2025, the initiative reached 6,000 smallholder farmers across 12 Local Government Areas (LGAs), including Ningi, Ganjuwa, Alkaleri, Bauchi, Darazo, Katagum, Toro, Warji, Tafawa Balewa, and Gamawa, with a particular focus on women’s participation.
The training covered timely vaccination, biosecurity practices, accurate record-keeping, and managing livestock as a business rather than just for subsistence. Farmers were also provided with treatment and record-keeping cards to track flock performance, monitor losses, and make informed decisions.
“Before now, I just kept birds and hoped for the best. Now I know when to vaccinate, how many I have, and whether I’m really making a profit,” said Zakiya Sanusi, a livestock farmer.
“I used to lose birds without knowing why. Now I understand disease prevention and can keep proper records. It has changed how I run my farm,” added Umar Faruk, another participant.
El-Beth’s field staff collaborated with Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWs) to deliver the programme directly to rural communities, addressing long-standing barriers to veterinary services.
The partnership also seeks to expand access to quality vaccines and veterinary products through CAHWs and Veterinary Paraprofessionals (VPPs), ensuring that farmers not only receive inputs but also understand how to use them effectively for sustainable impact.
According to the organisers, the initiative is expected to strengthen farmers’ resilience, increase household incomes, especially for women, support rural entrepreneurship, and contribute to long-term agricultural sustainability.
As El-Beth and Propcom+ scale the programme, thousands more farmers in Bauchi and beyond are expected to benefit from improved livestock health and business-focused farming practices.